Trails for Every Traveler
Welcome to West Virginia, land of unparalleled natural beauty and huge contrasts. Whatever it is that draws your first notice, you’ll discover that West Virginia literally has something for everyone: lazy camping trips, exciting racetrack, fascinating museums, and America’s Best Whitewater. You can find all of that and some places your never even knew existed.
Whether this is your first visit to West Virginia, or a yearly event you’ve come to treasure, make yourself at home. Wherever you go, you’ll find a new experience…and a breathtaking view. Consider this your invitation to explore the wonder of West Virginia. Discover the place where the smiles are real, and the feeling of friendship resonates with every greeting. Discover the place where you belong.
1. Backpacking the Cranberry Wilderness - More Beautiful Than You Ever Imagined!
There is a place high in the mountains that is truly unique. Cranberry Glades is one of the real natural wonders of West Virginia, and a backpacker’s paradise. This visit also includes a trip to The National Radio Astronomy Observatory at Green Bank.
2. Midland Trail - West Virginia Treasures and Some Down Home Fun!
Along the Midland Trail, you’ll learn about the state’s African-American history and industrial beginnings, you’ll get a new perspective on arts and entertainment with a visit to Mountain Stage, the acclaimed public radio music program and you’ll also see for yourself why West Virginia is “almost heaven” when you view the New River Gorge from a one-of-a-kind bridge.
3. Lewis & Clark Expedition - On the Banks of the Ohio…
Many of the cities and towns on the banks of the Ohio River are steeped in state and national history. This excursion recalls the travels of famed early American explorers Lewis & Clark. Along the way you’ll stop at Oglebay’s Good Zoo in Wheeling and see Adena Indian mounds in Moundsville. This river tour ends in Parkersburg with a glass factory tour!
4. Holiday Shopping & Spa Weekend - A Little Rest and Relaxation in Splendid Style!
If you think a weekend in the West Virginia woodlands is special, wait ‘til you visit one of our spas. Glade Springs Resort is a beautiful way to pamper yourself, from the luxurious suites to the exquisite cuisine. Later, there’s shopping at Tamarack, drinks at the Daniel Vineyards, and a tour-of-a-lifetime through historic Bramwell. '
5. George Washington Trail - History Comes Alive!
The George Washington Heritage Trail winds through some Eastern Panhandle cities and towns with impressive histories, such as Harpers Ferry, site of abolitionist John Brown’s raid, and Berkeley Springs, where our first president came to test the miracle waters. You’ll also visit beautiful Charles Town, home of an elegant horse racing track, and Martinsburg, with its unique cultural appeal.
6. Hatfield & McCoy Trail - An Adventure You Won’t Soon Forget!
There are things you’ll find in West Virginia that simply do not exist anywhere else! The new Hatfield-McCoy Recreation Area Trail is one example of this. It offers two thousand acres and some 80 miles of four-wheeling fun. You’ll also learn a little about the Hatfields and McCoys, who fought their way into the history books, and became synonymous with the term “family feud.”
7. Football, Food & Fun In Mountaineer Country - How ‘Bout Them ‘Eers?
If it’s autumn in Morgantown, you can bet the natives will be restless. A crisp chill in the air inspires tailgate parties, and cheers for the Gold and Blue. This trip to the Mountain State also includes a kayak trip and a visit to Arthurdale, one of First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt’s depression-era projects.
8. A Little Bit of Switzerland - A Celebration of Heritage
Like other states, West Virginia is a melting pot. Early settlers came from all over the world to carve out a new life for themselves here. Some communities still reflect the individual cultures of the people who established them. Helvetia is such a community.